TREMOR – Technology Resources for Earthquake Monitoring & Response

Earthquakes represent a major hazard for populations around the world, causing frequent loss of life, human suffering, and enormous damage to homes, other buildings, and infrastructure. The Technology Resources for Earthquake Monitoring and Response (TREMOR) proposal is designed to address this problem. This proposal recommends two prototype systems integrating space-based and ground technology. The suggested pilot implementation is over a 10-year period in three focus countries – China, Japan, and Peru – that are among the areas in the world most afflicted by earthquakes. The first proposed system is an Early Warning Prototype that addresses the potential of earthquake precursors, the science of which is incomplete and considered controversial within the scientific community. We recommend the development and launch of two small satellites to study ionospheric and electromagnetic precursors. In combination with ground-based precursor research, the data gathered will improve existing knowledge of earthquake-related phenomena. The second proposed system is an Earthquake Simulation and Response Prototype. An earthquake simulator will combine any available precursor data with detailed knowledge of the affected areas using a Geographic Information System (GIS) to identify those areas that are most likely to experience the greatest level of damage. Mobile satellite communication hubs will provide telephone and data links between response teams, while satellite navigation systems will locate and track emergency vehicles. We also recommend education and training for response teams on the use of these technologies. The two prototypes will be developed and implemented by a proposed non-profit non-governmental organization (NGO) called the TREMOR Foundation, which will obtain funding from government disaster management agencies and NGOs. A for-profit subsidiary will market any spin-off technologies and provide an additional source of funding. Assuming positive results from the prototype systems, Team TREMOR recommends their eventual and permanent implementation in all countries affected by earthquakes.

Peer Reviewed